Zahtar

A Middle Eastern spice blend made with dried thyme, toasted sesame seeds, ground sumac, and salt, zahtar is the cause of some confusion since it is also the Arabic word for thyme. Proportions of ingredients can vary enormously from region to region, with some blends favoring the addition of other ingredients such as hyssop, sumac leaves, savory, oregano, and fennel seeds to name a few. As such, the flavor profile of the blend can vary from very nutty, to tangy, herbal, or salty, depending on the reigning ingredient. Zahtar is often combined with a little olive oil and spread on rounds of flat bread, then eaten for breakfast. In fact, the spice mixture is believed by some to be so fortifying for mind and body that Lebanese children are encouraged to eat this herbal snack before their exams. Zahtar is also used as a dipping mixture for bread, to spice meat and vegetables, sprinkled on labneh (a thick yogurt cheese), and as a finishing touch to fried eggs.

NotesWhile the blend is available in Middle Eastern spice shops, it is a simple task to make your own in small quantities as you need it. You can also make a fresh version by substituting the dried thyme for fresh, which is delicious tossed through chicken pieces or potatoes before roasting.

CostInexpensive

Total Timeunder 15 minutes

Make Ahead RecipeYes

Kid FriendlyYes

One Pot MealYes

Equipmentspice grinder

Five Ingredients or LessYes

Mealbreakfast

Taste and Texturecrunchy, herby, nutty, salty

Type of DishCondiments